A new statewide TV ad in Colorado is criticizing President Obama’s administration for its new carbon dioxide regulations, part of a broader effort to push back against EPA rules aimed at air pollution. (See the ad below.)

The National Association of Manufacturers is sponsoring the 30-second spot and paying millions to put it on statewide TV nearly 1,000 times in the next week, according to the organization. Colorado is the first state to see the ad, but the effort is expected to expand to others soon. The organization has been pushing its message on national TV for the past year, suggesting the EPA’s emissions rules will hurt the economy and businesses.

Martin, appointed to his DNR job last fall, also served as Gov. Bill Ritter’s first director of the Department of Public Health and Environment. He was considered a key player in the behind-the-scenes negotiations in landmark legislation that requires Xcel to convert older coal-fired plants into using natural gas. The bill was signed into law on Monday.

“Over the past three years, Jim has served the people of Colorado with great distinction as a key member of my administration,” Ritter said in a statement.

“He is one of the most honorable people in public service. He is widely respected and trusted by people with diverse and often opposing viewpoints because he is able to work through complex issues and find areas of common ground. “

Joey Bunch has been a reporter for 28 years, including the last 12 at The Denver Post. For various newspapers he has covered the environment, water issues, politics, civil rights, sports and the casino industry.